Curtin University

What you'll study

The PhD in Nursing and Midwifery is a research-intensive degree focused on developing an original, examinable thesis. Candidates design and undertake a substantial programme of independent research in areas such as clinical practice, maternal and neonatal health, aged care, chronic disease management, workforce and education, health services research, quality and safety, Indigenous health, and implementation science.

Structure and milestones typically include:

• Development of a research proposal and literature review leading to confirmation of candidature.
• Data collection and analysis using qualitative, quantitative or mixed-methods approaches appropriate to the research question.
• Regular supervision meetings with a supervisory panel and participation in a higher degree by research (HDR) training program (research methods, ethics, academic writing and career development).
• Progress milestones such as ethics approval, candidature confirmation, annual progress reviews and a final thesis submission followed by examination and an oral viva voce where required.

Though primarily a thesis-based programme, candidates are encouraged to publish peer-reviewed articles, present at conferences and contribute to collaborative projects. Opportunities exist to undertake placements in clinical, community or policy settings when relevant to the research.

Entry requirements

Admission to the PhD programme requires a relevant research master’s degree or an honours degree with a significant research component, or equivalent research experience judged sufficient by the university. Applicants should submit a concise research proposal or statement of research interests, a curriculum vitae, and academic transcripts.

Selection also depends on the availability of appropriate supervisors with expertise in the proposed area and the demonstration of the candidate’s capacity to undertake doctoral research. Applicants must meet Curtin University’s English language proficiency requirements and provide referees’ reports or academic references. International applicants should check the university’s guidance for additional documentation or visa-related requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates of the PhD in Nursing and Midwifery are equipped for careers in academic research and teaching, leadership roles in clinical settings, health policy and service development, research management, and high-level clinical practice. Common career outcomes include:

• Academic positions (lecturer, senior lecturer, research fellow) and continuing research activity.
• Clinical leadership roles such as nurse/midwife unit managers, clinical nurse consultants or advanced practice positions.
• Health service research and policy roles within hospitals, government departments, non-government organisations and industry.
• Positions in evidence synthesis, guideline development, quality improvement and health education.

Doctoral training develops transferable skills in critical appraisal, research design, data analysis, grant writing and scholarly communication that are valued across the health and social care sectors.

Why study at Curtin University

Curtin has a strong, interdisciplinary approach to nursing and midwifery research with active collaborations across clinical services, health agencies and international partners. The university supports HDR candidates through structured research training, methodological expertise, and access to dedicated research centres and facilities.

Curtin’s nursing and midwifery supervisors bring experience in a wide range of practice and research settings, including acute and primary care, maternal and child health, aged care and Indigenous health. Candidates benefit from established clinical links that can facilitate data access, translational research and impact on practice.

The university also provides guidance on scholarships, professional development and pathways to publication and academic careers, helping doctoral candidates build a strong research profile and networks within the health sector.